Angkor Wat North Terrace Undergoing 20-Meter Restoration

A 20-meter section of the northern terrace of Angkor Wat, a symbol of Cambodia, is undergoing restoration and structural reinforcement based on precise technical principles by a team of experts from the Authority for the Protection and Management of Angkor and the Greater Siem Reap Region (APSARA). According to Ms. Nong Boravy, an archaeologist at APSARA, this marks the ninth phase of the restoration project for the northern terrace of Angkor Wat. The project, which began in 2013, aims to enhance the value and aesthetic appeal of the terrace by progressively restoring 20-meter sections annually. By 2026, the total length to be restored is expected to reach 183 meters. The ninth phase of restoration work commenced in mid-2026 and is scheduled for completion by the end of this year. Ms. Boravy explained that the damage to the terrace is primarily due to aging and a lack of maintenance caused by past conflicts, which has compromised the lower foundation and led to the disintegration of upper stone elements, resulting in the loss of original structures. Furthermore, vegetation and large trees growing along the terrace also pose a risk, pushing and displacing the stones from their original forms. The restoration work involves dismantling, repairing stone elements, compacting soil, and reassembling stones according to their original configurations. The terrace is constructed with seven tiers of sandstone at the base and three tiers of laterite stone above. Ms. Boravy expressed optimism that upon completion, the beauty of the Angkor Wat terrace will be further enhanced, encouraging more tourists to visit, sit, and take photographs. Source: Kampuchea Thmey Local